James | Teacher #2081
About James
James holds a bachelor's degree in classical guitar with a specialization in orchestration from Dalhousie University. With a wealth of experience studying under renowned musicians like Don Ross and Scott Macmillan, James brings a unique approach to teaching. Fluent in English and French, he offers lessons in classical guitar, composition, drumset, electric guitar, mandolin, percussion, recorder, ukulele, and advanced music theory. His teaching philosophy revolves around nurturing each student's unique talents and learning styles. From orchestration to experimental compositions, James's expertise spans various genres and instruments. He provides personalized instruction online, at students' homes, or in his studio, guiding students on their musical journey. Book an interview now.
Guitar Electric Guitar Ukulele Classical Guitar Drumset Percussions Recorder Composition Mandolin Ear Training Music History Counterpoint Harmony Music Theory (Beginner-Intermediate) Solfege Music Appreciation Composition Orff Music Theory (Advanced)
Online Lessons In Studio Lessons Lessons in Your Home
Classical Jazz Country Pop Rock Latin Salsa Rock and Roll Heavy Metal Folk Blues Broadway Musicals Celtic Christian Gospel Hip Hop Progressive Rock Reggae Rhythm and Blues Ska Flamenco Funk Irish Fiddle Rap Bluegrass Mariachi Punk Baroque
English French
Teaching Philosophy
I hold the belief that every student is unique and should be nurtured strategically based on their personality, interests, and transferable skills and knowledge. My role as a teacher is to uncover the key to each student's learning style so that I can provide the tailored support they need to embark on their journey of creating beautiful music.
Musical Education
I have a bachelor's degree from Dalhousie University for classical guitar with a specialization in orchestration. One of my first teachers in school was the Canadian fingerstyle master Don Ross who taught me a lot about new playing techniques and how to use open and altered guitar tunings for successful arrangements. I then studied orchestration with Scott Macmillan who was an award winning composer and incredible performer of Blues, Jazz, Celtic music (as he was a native of Cape Breton) as well as performing and conducting pieces by classical composers like Beethoven, Mozart, Bartok, and Hindemith. He was a great inspiration to my ability as a composer and orchestrator and guided me in my arrangements of Bartok and Ravel for solo guitar and guitar quartet.
Special Skills and Trainings
I enjoyed the privilege of playing viola da gamba for Soheila Goleistani, at the Toronto Tirgan Festival. I also continue to make arrangements of Persian folk music for various projects. I have also performed my own experimental compositions at the Obey Festival ( for viola, gongs and vibrating membranes in Halifax representing Dalhousie Universities. and the 21c conference for guitar and technology(guitar, vibration speakers, harp, cymbals and timpani) at the University of Ottawa. Since 2015 I have been studying North Indian Classical music on Sarod and have studied with renowned masters, sitarist Irshad Khan and Sarodist Arnab Chakraborty.
Lessons in your home
James is available to teach in your home if you are located in the following areas:- Etobicoke, ON
- Toronto, ON
Lessons in a music studio
James offers lessons from his studio. Map locations are approximate and based on the postal code of the teacher’s studio. The full address will be provided upon registration.Lessons on an online platform
James can provide online instruction. While other platforms are possible BAH strongly recommends the use of the Zoom video conferencing platform as it is optimized for music lessons and audio quality.Reviews
Associate Teacher Lesson Rates:
James is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
- 30 minutes: $39
- 45 minutes: $49
- 60 minutes: $59
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Our Promise to You
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
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